This new app wants to make you nicer

In a bid to make you all nicer, happier and more mindful, a new smartphone app called 10% Happier has been launched with the intent of allowing people to take time out of their day to centre and align themselves with the universe once more.

For some people, meditation is something which is associated with yoga pants and lengthy trips to Nepal and India, whereas it is steadily becoming one of the most popular spiritual practices in Western culture. There have even been recent studies which show how its direct health benefits can assist in recovery from certain forms of cancer.

“Smartphone overindulgence can wreak havoc on your well-being if not used mindfully — studies show too much tech can mess with your sleep, your self-esteem and even your physical health — but well-being apps can be a counterintuitive antidote if executed properly. Research on smartphone programs is scarce and mildly disheartening (a 2015 study found a majority of depression apps recommended by the National Health Service show no evidence they help). But that doesn’t necessarily mean users — or developers, for that matter — should throw in the towel. In fact, it should encourage more innovation.

As Kathryn Noth, a clinical psychologist with the Center for Behavioral Intervention Technologies at Northwestern University, explained to The Week, therapy and stress apps could be a useful supplement to professional treatment.

Given the commonality of stress and mental illness, well-functioning apps are necessary. Well-being apps like 10% Happier join the ranks of other initiatives likeHeadspace, Koko and Talk Space, which are designed to encourage users to make positive changes in their lives. If it helps ease stress or encourages someone to get help in just the smallest way, then it’s already doing a world of good.”

For more information on How To Meditate, check online for a range of options which will allow you to try and remain grounded in these distracted and trying times.

Colin J McCracken is a content designer, editor and writer from Ireland. Giving form and function to the My Good Planet vision, it has been his role to design and develop the online platform, content and presence of the project.